Computer Specifications
For Students, Faculty, Staff
Overview
The Office of Information Technology establishes the minimum technology recommendations for personal computers, an Internet connection, accessories and software suitable to teach, learn, and work at Fordham University.
Personal Computers
| Feature | Windows-based PC | Apple Mac/macOS-based PC | Chromebook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home, Pro, or Enterprise What’s my Windows version? |
macOS 14 Sonoma or higher What’s my Mac version? |
ChromeOS 145.0.7632.165 |
| Web browser | Google Chrome | Google Chrome in addition to Safari | Google Chrome |
| Processor | 8th Gen to 14th Gen & Ultra-Core i3/i5/i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer 3000 series What’s my processor on Windows? |
8th Gen to 14th Gen & Ultra-Core i3/i5/i7/i9 What’s my processor on my Mac? |
Intel Core i3 12th Gen, AMD Ryzen 3 5000 series, or MediaTek Kompanio 910/1000 series |
| Memory/RAM | 8GB Minimum but 16GB Recommended What’s my memory on Windows? |
8GB Minimum but 16GB Recommended What’s my memory on my Mac? |
4GB free space |
| Available Storage | 64GB free space What’s my free storage in Windows? |
64GB free space What’s my free storage space on my Mac? |
64GB free space |
| Disk Space | Recommended Size: For comfortable use, a 256GB drive | Recommended Size: For comfortable use, a 256GB drive | Recommended Size: 64GB drive or higher |
| Display resolution | 1280 X 720 What’s my display resolution on Windows? |
1280 X 720 What is my display resolution on my Mac? |
1280 X 720 |
| Connectivity | Available port(s) to accommodate recommended accessories | Available port(s) to accommodate recommended accessories | Available port(s) to accommodate recommended accessories |
Internet Access
Telephone and TV service providers offer the best Internet access for consumers. They can equip your household with an Internet modem, which connects to your computer via an ethernet cable, or a wireless router. A WiFi hotspot may be used as an alternative connection. It allows your computer to connect to the Internet using cellular networks from providers such as T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. A hotspot, however, might not provide enough bandwidth to meet your needs and therefore should be used only as a short-term solution. For help with choosing a way to connect to the Internet, contact IT Service Center.
Minimum Internet Speed Specifications
| Recommendation | Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
| Connection speed | 20 Mbps |
| Download speed | 3 Mbps |
| Upload speed | 3 Mbps |
Test upload and download speeds
Accessories
| Recommendation | Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
| Webcam | Minimum resolution: 720P or 1080P HD Use an external webcam if your device does not have an internal webcam. |
| Audio | Speaking: Most laptops and tablets feature microphones. Other options include a webcam microphone and external microphone Listening: Speakers, headphones Speaking and listening: Earbuds with mic, phone headset |
Software
| Recommendation | Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
| Productivity | Office 365 is available free to students and faculty or Microsoft Office 2024 (Office 2021 support ends on October 2026) (Drive/Docs/Gmail) |
| Antivirus | Available for University-owned devices |
| PDF viewer | Adobe Reader DC |
| Online meetings | Zoom |
FAQs
Which browser should I use?
- Use the most current version of Chrome. Allow these browsers to update automatically. These browsers work well with Blackboard, Panopto and Fordham's other web-based tools.
- Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, and Safari (native to Macs) are not recommended because they may not be compatible with many of Fordham's applications and systems.
My PC uses Windows 10. Is that ok?
Microsoft no longer supports Windows 10, and therefore, it should not be used due to security concerns and compatibility issues with Fordham applications. Moreover, the IT Service Desk may not be able to support you if you run into a problem. For assistance with upgrading your PC to Windows 11, contact the IT Service Desk.